One person has died after an ammonia leak in Mount Paul Industrial Park in Kamloops, according to city officials.
The leak occurred Thursday morning, and Kamloops City Council confirmed that one person had died as a result of the incident.
“Public safety is our top priority: the scenario is now stable and evacuated businesses and other citizens can do business in the area,” the city said.
0:27 Hazardous equipment responds to ammonia leak in Kamloops Hazardous equipment responds to ammonia leak in Kamloops
On Thursday afternoon, the RCMP said that the Tk’emlúps Rural Detachment and the South East District General Investigation Services are investigating the cause of an ammonia leak.
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The city originally asked residents to avoid the 790 Sarcee Street East area.
Read more: Fernie’s fatal ammonia leak caused by decision to operate leaking refrigerator: report
Police said they responded to help Kamloops Fire and Rescue after reports of a leak in the area.
“Traffic was redirected as nearby shops were evacuated. One person was transported to hospital from the initial incident and unfortunately succumbed to his injuries,” the Kamloops RCMP said.
One person was transported to RIH and unfortunately we can confirm that there was one death as a result of this incident. Public safety is our top priority: the scenario is now stable and evacuated businesses and other citizens can do business in the area.
– City of Kamloops (itycityofkamloops) May 26, 2022
In a warning on social media on Thursday morning, Kamloops City Council said a team of hazardous materials was on its way and that the RCMP was helping with road closures.
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Following this warning, CFJC Today said sources at the Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops indicated that one person had died as a result of the leak.
CFJC Today also said that according to a source at Royal Inland Hospital, an “orange code” was requested to prepare staff to accept mass casualties, but that it was suspended before 12pm.
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BC Emergency Health Services told Global News that one person had been rushed to hospital in critical condition after receiving a call around 10:30 a.m., and that five paramedics and two supervisors were to answer.
BCEHS said two other patients were transported to the hospital in stable condition, while about six patients who are said to be in stable condition were evaluated at the scene.
In an email to Global News, Interior Health confirmed that the hospital was preparing to receive patients from an incident in Kamloops and was notified that eight patients would be admitted.
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During the incident, Interior Health asked residents with non-urgent needs to avoid visiting the emergency department.
At 1:30 p.m., Interior Health said Royal Inland Hospital was caring for four patients related to the incident.
And at 2:30 p.m., IH said all four had been evaluated, treated if necessary, and discharged.
Meanwhile, WorkSafeBC says it has opened an investigation into the incident.
“The goal of our research is to identify the cause of the incident, including the factors that contribute to it, so that similar incidents can be avoided in the future,” WorkSafe said. “We cannot provide any further details while the investigation is ongoing.”
Kamloops RCMP Const. Crystal Evelyn added: “With public safety now assured, police will conduct a parallel investigation into WorkSafeBC to determine what caused the deadly leak.”
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Technical Safety BC, an independent organization that oversees the safe installation and operation of technical systems and equipment throughout BC, says it has a road safety officer.
The organization says it will work with other agencies to examine the equipment involved and determine the cause of the incident.
“Our condolences to the friends, colleagues and loved ones of the person who lost his life in today’s incident,” said Technical Safety BC, who added that he will provide more information when available.
“Ammonia safety awareness is one of Technical Safety BC’s top priorities. We work closely with industry professionals to improve the safety of refrigeration systems and raise awareness of the risks posed by ammonia equipment. “
British Columbia Deputy Prime Minister Mike Farnworth issued a statement condoling the victim’s family and friends.
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“Workers and their families should not have to worry about their safety and well-being when they are at work,” Fanfworth said.
“Tragedies like this strengthen our determination to ensure that everyone in BC can enjoy a secure job.”
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